The US opposes the presence of European businesses in Iran as Washington eyes long-term interests of American companies in the Iranian market, a sociologist says.By criticizing visits to Iran by economic delegations, the US seeks to defend the long-term interests of American companies and keep the Iranian market from being overrun by European firms, said the analyst in an interview with the Persian Service of Radio France.
The Europeans, particularly France, Germany and Italy, benefited a lot from the absence of American companies due to sanctions against Iran. Meanwhile, US firms have incurred losses so far, the academician pointed out.
The analyst made the remarks in reaction to US Secretary of State John Kerrys complaint to French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius after a 116-strong French delegation traveled to Iran for commercial opportunities.
On February 3, the French team travelled to Iran for a three-day visit to hold talks with Iranian officials.
On Wednesday, French Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici brushed off criticisms, saying the French delegations visit was "a bet on the future based both on firmness and negotiation."
The French delegation was the largest of its kind from Europe since last Novembers landmark nuclear deal was signed between Iran and six world powers in Geneva.
Under the interim agreement between Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States -- plus Germany, Iran limited certain aspects of its nuclear activities for a six-month period in return for some relief from the Western sanctions.
Following the deal, numerous diplomatic and economic delegations from different countries have visited Iran to discuss expansion of relations with Tehran.
By Press TV
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